{"id":40457,"date":"2023-10-04T09:22:00","date_gmt":"2023-10-04T01:22:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/qnet.net\/?p=40457"},"modified":"2026-04-24T17:47:18","modified_gmt":"2026-04-24T09:47:18","slug":"avoid-online-scams","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/opportunity-articles\/compliance-articles\/avoid-online-scams\/","title":{"rendered":"Scam Alert: The Most Popular Online Scams and How to Avoid Them"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Advancements in technology have provided better opportunities for millions worldwide, and QNET especially has managed to leverage these in our quest to build sustainable economies getting rid of QNET scam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, while greater connectivity has helped empower so many, bodies like the Global Anti-Scam Alliance confirm that a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.businesswire.com\/news\/home\/20221006005571\/en\/GASAs-Study-Reveals-55.3-Billion-Lost-in-Scams-Worldwide\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">lot of money is lost yearly<\/a> to unscrupulous companies and individuals running online scams, with tricksters getting more creative by the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thankfully, it\u2019s entirely possible to protect ourselves and our hard-earned money. And it begins with being aware of the most prevalent scams and knowing how to avoid them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Here are some of the most common online scams and what you can do to avoid them:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"QNET Online Security | How to spot &amp; avoid online scams\" width=\"563\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Kky_dHMx-Dw?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Phishing Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:100%;position:relative;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/e9Sz4MDf6knzN8ajMb\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" style=\"position:absolute\" frameBorder=\"0\" class=\"giphy-embed\" allowFullScreen><\/iframe><\/div><p><a href=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/gifs\/e9Sz4MDf6knzN8ajMb\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">via GIPHY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By far the most popular scam, <a href=\"https:\/\/consumer.ftc.gov\/articles\/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">phishing attacks<\/a> usually take the form of text or email messages that are designed to obtain sensitive info from victims. A common trick is to tell victims that suspicious activity or log-in attempts have been noticed and that their personal details are needed to rectify the problem. The takeaway here is: when in doubt, always seek to verify what you\u2019ve been told before divulging personal information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Romance Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:178%;position:relative;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/hZPbiP8feMrR8gyce1\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" style=\"position:absolute\" frameBorder=\"0\" class=\"giphy-embed\" allowFullScreen><\/iframe><\/div><p><a href=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/gifs\/buzzfeed-dating-tinder-hZPbiP8feMrR8gyce1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">via GIPHY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, it\u2019s certainly possible to connect with someone romantically via the Internet. However, it\u2019s also possible to fall for scammers with fake profiles that paint themselves as lonely, good-looking people who are just waiting for the right person. The ploy here is to get you to lower your guard, and once the scammer has gained your love and affection, manipulate you into sending them money. This deceptive practice is known as &#8220;catfishing,&#8221; where individuals create fake personas to deceive others online. So, be cautious and consider everything before choosing to open your heart and wallet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Investment Scams&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56%;position:relative;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/eVRSUwvkOZUGZfucnw\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" style=\"position:absolute\" frameBorder=\"0\" class=\"giphy-embed\" allowFullScreen><\/iframe><\/div><p><a href=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/gifs\/southpark-south-park-post-covid-return-of-nft-eVRSUwvkOZUGZfucnw\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">via GIPHY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Get-rich-quick \u201cinvestment opportunities\u201d are almost always scams. Hence, if someone\u2019s trying to get you to put your savings in stocks, bonds, commodities, currency or real estate and promising high yields incredibly speedily, they\u2019re most likely looking to rip you off. Also, be especially wary if you\u2019re told that you ought to act quickly before everyone else tries to get in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tech Support Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56%;position:relative;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/Vu7FU5T4RJPo1esgna\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" style=\"position:absolute\" frameBorder=\"0\" class=\"giphy-embed\" allowFullScreen><\/iframe><\/div><p><a href=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/gifs\/art-geek-systaime-Vu7FU5T4RJPo1esgna\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">via GIPHY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Have you been hit with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ftc.gov\/business-guidance\/small-businesses\/cybersecurity\/tech-support-scams\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">pop-up messages<\/a> telling you that your computer needs fixing? Beware! Clicking on the links and, subsequently, downloading any recommended files or running scans can make your data vulnerable to fraudsters. Of course, tech devices do require maintenance from time to time, but if you\u2019re really concerned, download legitimate software or get in touch with software and hardware service providers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Malware Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56%;position:relative;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/wZ2MLlfN2eRP2\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" style=\"position:absolute\" frameBorder=\"0\" class=\"giphy-embed\" allowFullScreen><\/iframe><\/div><p><a href=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/gifs\/realitytvgifs-rhonj-real-housewives-of-new-jersey-teresa-giudice-wZ2MLlfN2eRP2\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">via GIPHY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Like Tech Support Scams, Malware Scams aim to con victims into clicking on seemingly legit and\/or interesting links that then result in viruses, spyware, ransomware and other software getting downloaded onto computers and mobile devices. The rule here, thus, is never to open attachments and\/or click on dubious links, always be wary of free downloads, and only visit legit and reliable websites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Lottery Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:76%;position:relative;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/l2JdTUDj26z4hDqLu\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" style=\"position:absolute\" frameBorder=\"0\" class=\"giphy-embed\" allowFullScreen><\/iframe><\/div><p><a href=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/gifs\/season-3-the-simpsons-3x19-l2JdTUDj26z4hDqLu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">via GIPHY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of us dream of winning the lottery and striking it rich. But if you\u2019ve never bought a <a href=\"https:\/\/consumer.ftc.gov\/articles\/fake-prize-sweepstakes-lottery-scams\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">lottery<\/a> ticket, how is it that you were contacted about having scored a big money prize? Hence, be wary of such calls and messages, especially if you\u2019re being asked to cough up a fee to secure your reward or told that an up-front payment would increase your chances of winning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ponzi Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Essentially a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/opportunity-articles\/qnet-business\/direct-selling-not-a-pyramid-scheme\/\">pyramid scheme<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.investor.gov\/protect-your-investments\/fraud\/types-fraud\/ponzi-scheme\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ponzi Scams<\/a> aim to help early investors (those at the top of the pyramid) benefit from the funds and profits collected from later investors. Of course, there\u2019s no such thing as easy money. As such, if someone\u2019s promising high returns but profiting at your expense, there\u2019s something seriously wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Work-From-Home Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:96%;position:relative;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/UvW7IxLkVnEXavoN8Z\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" style=\"position:absolute\" frameBorder=\"0\" class=\"giphy-embed\" allowFullScreen><\/iframe><\/div><p><a href=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/gifs\/muyloco-cry-homeoffice-home-office-UvW7IxLkVnEXavoN8Z\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">via GIPHY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The nature of work has changed, and particularly in the case of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/qnet-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">QNET\u2019s direct selling business opportunity<\/a>, which is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/qnet-business-articles\/compliance-articles\/qnet-scam-myth-friends-family\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">legal and legitimate<\/a>, one can choose when, where and how much to work. That being said, if you\u2019re being asked to pay a fee to get an easy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/finding-a-job\/work-from-home-scams\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">work-from-home<\/a> job, it\u2019s likely bogus. So, check to see if the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/qnet_answers\/why-is-qnet-so-often-referred-to-as-a-scam-a-pyramid-scheme-and-or-a-fraudulent-business-aimed-at-cheating-people\/\">company is a lawful entity<\/a> with business premises, how much is known publicly about the so-called job offer, and what the testimonials are like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Charity Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:100%;position:relative;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/KdxQ0LbqDHJ9X9sQhC\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" style=\"position:absolute\" frameBorder=\"0\" class=\"giphy-embed\" allowFullScreen><\/iframe><\/div><p><a href=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/gifs\/cbc-comedy-schittscreek-creek-KdxQ0LbqDHJ9X9sQhC\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">via GIPHY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While there are many legit non-profits like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rythmfoundation.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">RYTHM Foundation<\/a>, which work to empower disenfranchised communities worldwide, there are also scores of thieves with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fbi.gov\/how-we-can-help-you\/safety-resources\/scams-and-safety\/common-scams-and-crimes\/charity-and-disaster-fraud\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">ready sob stories<\/a> designed to defraud. Be especially aware, thus, of calls and messages that claim to be following up on donation pledges, and research the so-called charities before reaching into your pocket.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Advance Fee Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56%;position:relative;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/26AHRwK78SVPuJgmk\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" style=\"position:absolute\" frameBorder=\"0\" class=\"giphy-embed\" allowFullScreen><\/iframe><\/div><p><a href=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/gifs\/showtime-dice-andrew-clay-shodice-26AHRwK78SVPuJgmk\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">via GIPHY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re being asked to make an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.investor.gov\/protect-your-investments\/fraud\/types-fraud\/advance-fee-fraud\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">advance payment<\/a> to ensure the transfer of money, profits, commissions or goods, you\u2019re very likely being targeted by scammers. Note that, like with Lottery Scams, real organisations don\u2019t seek fees upfront to secure payments. So, say no to anyone who wants payment in return for a windfall and like with the other online scams listed above, be cautious, look and consider everything beforehand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, in every suspicious situation, there\u2019s almost always more than meets the eye, and if things look too good to be true, it probably is!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">New to QNET? It&#8217;s important to learn more about online scams and other tricks that may divert attention from legitimate businesses. <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To safeguard yourself and your direct selling business from online scams and deceptive practices, make it a point to explore more about the industry and the company you&#8217;re representing. QNET offers essential resources like the <a href=\"\/business-toolkit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">QNET Business Toolkit<\/a>, <a href=\"\/qnet-dictionary\/\">QNET Dictionary<\/a>, and <a href=\"\/qnet-answers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">QNET Answers<\/a>, which you can find here on QNET&#8217;s official website. Get to know about these and more features <a href=\"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/social-media-toolkit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">through this quick guide <\/a>and by exploring the whole site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure you also attend <a href=\"\/success-qnet\/infographic-register-for-qnet-webilearn-session\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">trainings officially provided by QNET for free <\/a>and download the <a href=\"\/success-qnet\/professional-direct-selling\/qnet-mobile-app-benefits\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"45232\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">QNET Mobile App<\/a> for more tools to help you run and promote your business more effectively. Remember that by keeping yourself informed, you can also guide more people towards the right path and away from trouble such as these popular online scams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Advancements in technology have provided better opportunities for millions worldwide, and QNET especially has managed to leverage these in our quest to build sustainable economies getting rid of QNET scam. Unfortunately, while greater connectivity has helped empower so many, bodies like the Global Anti-Scam Alliance confirm that a lot of money is lost yearly to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":40483,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3107],"tags":[112,2797,165],"tmauthors":[3131],"class_list":{"0":"post-40457","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-compliance-articles","8":"tag-direct-selling-tips","9":"tag-online-scams","10":"tag-qnet-advice"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40457","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=40457"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40457\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/40483"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=40457"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=40457"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=40457"},{"taxonomy":"tmauthors","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.qnet.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tmauthors?post=40457"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}